The Liberia Traffic Management Incorporated (LTMI) has come under intense legislative fire and public pressure for producing substandard license plates and driving licenses. “These people cannot perform this task,” multiple lawmakers said.
The decision followed a heated plenary debate triggered by three separate communications submitted by Representatives Austin Taylor, Obediah Varney, and Luther Collins regarding the quality of license plates being issued to vehicle owners across the country.
During deliberations, lawmakers raised concerns about what they described as substandard service delivery and the issuance of temporary “plank” license plates, which they argued have generated public dissatisfaction and raised questions about the implementation of the concession agreement.
Several lawmakers, including Representatives Alexander Poure, Ivar K. Jones, Obediah Varney, Alex S. Noah, and Moima Briggs-Mensah, expressed concerns over the impact of the LTM arrangement on employment opportunities and the potential overlap of responsibilities with existing government institutions.
The lawmakers called for a thorough review of the concession agreement, with some advocating for the possible de-ratification of the law establishing the entity if the investigation reveals violations of its mandate or failure to meet contractual obligations.
As part of the inquiry, plenary heard from authorities of LTMI as well as the Deputy Inspector General for Operations of the Liberia National Police.
During the hearing, LTMI Chief Executive Officer acknowledged that the controversial plank license plates were being used on a temporary basis pending the availability of standard plates.
Following extensive debate, plenary voted to constitute a specialized committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the concerns raised and provide recommendations for legislative action.
The committee is chaired by Representative Gizzie Kollince, with Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah serving as Co-Chair.
Other members of the committee include Representatives Ivar K. Jones, Prince Koinah, Sumo Mulbah, Marie Johnson, and Samuel Browne.
The committee has been mandated to investigate the issues surrounding the license plate concession arrangement, assess the concerns raised by lawmakers and the public, and report its findings and recommendations to plenary within two weeks.
During the 9th day sitting of the third quarter of the House of Representative, the CEO of Liberia Traffic Management Incorporated (LTMI), Lebanese Businessman Mohammed Abou Darwich, was seen in a video footage opposing an order or refusing to turn over his company’s wooden license plate to the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives.
LTMI is responsible for driver licensing and vehicle registration in Liberia.
The committee is expected to submit its report on June 23, 2026, at which time plenary will determine the appropriate course of action based on its findings.
The House of Representatives reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability, protecting the interests of the Liberian people, and guaranteeing that all concession agreements and public service arrangements operate in accordance with the law and in the best interest of the nation.
